Film Premiere & Discussion

“Israeli cuisine reflects humanity at its best.”—Michael Solomonov, American-Israeli chef of the acclaimed Zahav in Philadelphia

A major culinary revolution is taking place in a country almost always associated with conflict. In just thirty years, Israel has become known for its world-renowned cuisine.

But what is Israeli cuisine? In their documentary The Search for Israeli Cuisine, filmmaker Roger Sherman and chef Michael Solomonov filmed at over 120 locations all over Israel to find out. Through deconstruction of the food chain, the film traces the web of suppliers and chefs to the people who grow, process, supply and cook this unique fare. This exploration brings us face-to-face with the chefs, home cooks, farmers, vintners and cheese makers—spanning many different cultures—who combine to make up the Israeli food scene today. The result is a cuisine whose sophistication mirrors its people: secular, outward looking and innovative.

Roger Sherman and Michael Solomonov will discuss the film following the screening. Roger Sherman is a founder of Florentine Films whose work has won an Emmy, a Peabody, a James Beard Award, and two Academy Award nominations. Michael Solomonov is a James Beard Award-winning chef and the owner of Zahav and other restaurants in Philadelphia.